Grand Opening for Harrington EMS Station 8


Front: Levy Court Vice President Robert Scott , Levy Court President Joanne Masten, Kent County Past President Terry Pepper, Kent County Past Vice President Allan Angel  /  Back Row: Representative William Shannon Morris; County Administrator Kevin Sipple, Commissioner Jody Sweeney, Harrington Councilman Jack Stewart, Harrington Vice Mayor Darin Simpson, Commissioner Paul Hertz, Kent County Sheriff Norman Barlow, City of Harrington Mayor Frank Tolson, Public Safety Chief John Tinger, Senator David Lawson / Image courtesy Kent County, DE

The ribbon has been cut on the new Harrington EMS Station 8. Kent County, local and emergency services personnel gathered Friday for the grand opening. This is a modern facility designed to strengthen emergency medical response for residents in the southern area of the county. The new station provides paramedics with a dedicated, purpose-built space that supports faster response times, improved operational readiness and enhanced working conditions for EMS professionals.

Additional information from Kent County:

Key Features of the New Facility

  • A fully equipped two bay apparatus garage designed for rapid deployment and year round vehicle protection. 
  • Modern crew living quarters, including bunk rooms, a kitchen, day room, and training space to support 24/7 operations. 
  • A secure medical supply and equipment area to streamline restocking and readiness. 
  • Energy efficient systems and durable construction to ensure long term sustainability and reduced operating costs.

County leaders emphasized that the station reflects both the growing needs of the Harrington area and the county’s commitment to providing high quality emergency medical care. “This station represents Kent County’s continued commitment to public safety and to ensuring that our residents have access to fast, professional, life-saving care when they need it most, said Joanne Masten Levy Court President. The project also aligns with Kent County’s broader strategy to modernize EMS facilities across the region. “By pairing this station with its twin in Frederica, we have created a modern, resilient EMS footprint that will improve response times and enhance care for thousands of residents.”

Strengthening Countywide Emergency Response
Harrington EMS Station 8 expands the county’s ability to respond quickly to medical emergencies, particularly in rural and high growth areas. The station’s strategic location improves coverage along key corridors and supports mutual aid for neighboring communities.

During the ceremony, officials recognized the paramedics who will staff the station and thanked the many partners involved in planning, construction, and community coordination. I would like to thank my fellow commissioners, our county administration, the department of public safety, and all of the individuals who worked hard to plan and complete this project, said Robert Scott Levy Court Vice President. “Today’s opening represents more than a new building—it represents our commitment to saving lives,” county leadership noted during the event. “This station ensures that our residents receive the highest standard of emergency medical care when they need it most.”

Public Safety Chief John Tinger, who worked closely with Bancroft Construction throughout the project, praised their craftsmanship and highlighted the contributions of their design partners, noting that the interior blends functionality with a modern, welcoming style—creating a facility built for long-term comfort and efficiency.